Flood warnings amid heavy rain and strong winds as Storm Callum set to sweep in

Storm Callum is expected to bring torrential rain and winds of up to 70 mph to parts of the UK on Friday.

Heavy rainfall could present a risk to life, the Met Office said, as it issued a 36-hour amber warning for Wales.

The forecaster said there is a “good chance” some communities could be cut off due to flooded roads as up to 160 mm falls during the warning period.

Natural Resources Wales had issued five flood alerts for the south coast of the country by Thursday evening.

Power cuts, travel disruption and difficult driving conditions are also predicted, with yellow weather warnings for wind covering Northern Ireland and western parts of Wales, England and Scotland throughout Friday.

While Northern Ireland will enjoy some respite from the stormy conditions on Friday afternoon, winds are expected to pick up in the far northwest of Scotland into the evening.

The high winds, combined with heavy rain, could see leaves and twigs blocking drains, making flooding more likely, meteorologist Sarah Kent said.

She said: “The problem is most of the trees are still in leaf so, combined with the strong winds and torrential rain, we’re looking at stuff clogging the drains and some of the ditches so there could be issues with water actually draining away.”

While Windsor, the scene of Friday’s royal wedding, looks set to escape the worst of the storm, those charged with carrying any train on Princess Eugenie’s dress may have a challenge on their hands, Ms Kent added.

“It’s going to be blowy but not enough to cause any weather impacts,” she said.

“The people trying to hold the train are going to have to be doing a good job if she’s got a long one because the breeze will be catching it.”

The happy couple are likely to enjoy a dry but cloudy day, with the potential for brighter spells in the afternoon.

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